HOLIDAY ISSUE Moving Truck Ramp Maintenance Angel Tree Are QR Codes Making A Comeback? And MORE!! - On The Move Trucks
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Edition 27 / January - March 2021
Q U A R T E R LY
HOLIDAY ISSUE
Moving Truck Ramp Maintenance
Angel Tree
Are QR Codes Making A Comeback?
And MORE!!
Table of Contents
Editor’s Letter............................................................................................................... 3
On The Move News...................................................................................................... 4
On The Move Christmas Party...................................................................................... 5
New Trucks On The Road.............................................................................................. 6
Employee Spotlight...................................................................................................... 8
Moving Truck Ramp Maintenance.............................................................................. 10
Through superior customer service and Critical Pre-Marketing For Your New Store................................................................. 12
What A Year In Real Estate For The Self-Storage Industry.......................................... 14
quality innovative products, On The Move Are QR Codes Making A Comeback?.......................................................................... 16
provides their Licensees the ability to add When Disaster Strikes: Preparing For It And Dealing With The Aftermath................ 18
Angel Tree................................................................................................................... 20
value and profits to their business.
COVID-19: Lasting Impacts On the Self-Storage Industry........................................... 22
Recipe......................................................................................................................... 24
Uhaul Cartoon............................................................................................................ 25
Truck Of The Quarter.................................................................................................. 26
Handling Vagrancy In Self-Storage.............................................................................. 28
Resource Guide.......................................................................................................... 31
Name Title E-mail
Maury Westerdale Chairman of the Board info@onthemovetrucks.com
Susan Parra CEO/President susan@onthemovetrucks.com
Brian Obeck CFO bobeck@onthemovetrucks.com
CJ Stratte Marketing Director cj@onthemovetrucks.com
Tim Moranz Specialty Vehicle Program Manager tim@onthemovetrucks.com
Derek Garris Account Executive derek@onthemovetrucks.com
David Nasis Account Executive david@onthemovetrucks.com
Daniel Garza National Sales Manager daniel@onthemovetrucks.com
David Vaughan Account Executive dvaughan@onthemovetrucks.com
Amber White Mclane Sr. Account Executive amclane@onthemovetrucks.com
Laura Campos Accounting Administrator lcampos@onthemovetrucks.com
Angie Reese Customer Service Representative areese@onthemovetrucks.com
Kurt Varela Account Executive kvarela@onthemovetrucks.com
Rebecca Johnson Controller rjohnson@onthemovetrucks.com
Lexie Rose Staff Accountant lrose@onthemovetrucks.com
Noemi Gonzales Title Registration Associate noemi@onthemovetrucks.com
Karen Lunski Customer Service Director karen@onthemovetrucks.com
Juan Castillo Warehouse Manager juan@onthemovetrucks.com
Michael Woolard Senior Account Executive m.woolard@onthemovetrucks.com
2 | On The Move
EDITOR’S LETTER
Rule #1 of 2021: Do not talk about 2020. Before I agree to 2021, I need to see some
terms and conditions. All jokes aside, 2020 was a tumultuous year and we are so
lucky to be in a time that we could use technology to keep our business open! I’m so
grateful that we work in industries that were resilient during this time. Most of our
real estate customers found new opportunities and our storage customers tend to be
resilient no matter what hurdle we encounter. Food trucks also found a lot of new
opportunities by being able to staying open while restaurants were forced to close
their doors.
Personally, 2020 was a growth year. I was able to slow down and get creative. I
learned to work with other people, ask for help, and think outside of the box. At On The Move, I helped launch
our podcast and worked with amazing people to bring great topics to light. We also wanted to feature some of our
partners and fellow vendors in this issue. They bring valuable knowledge and experience to our magazine and I’m so
excited they agreed to be part of it.
We also spent some time improving processes and websites for you. We were able to add digital signatures to our
ACTION!2.0 software. Watch for training webinars in your inbox as we finalize the changes. Our website has also had
some massive improvements making it easier to order products from our store. If you are a SecureLease customer, we
have added an automated way to send your reports. Many new things for the new year!
Thank you for being our customer! We look forward to serving you in 2021! If you would like to be featured in our
magazine, please send an email to me at CJ@onthemvoetrucks.com.
Trainings Available to our Customers
TRUCK RENTAL GUIDELINES
This is webinar is for new or experienced facility managers. Expect a review of the truck rental process, claims and how to fill
out the correct forms.
ACTION 2.0
Learn how to use our truck rental software!
TENANT PROTECTION 101
Are you offering tenant protection at your facility? Now is the time to learn best practices, claims process and more!
Interested in any of these trainings? Reach out to CJ Stratte at cj@onthemovetrucks.com to schedule a personalized webinar for
you and your team.
On The Move | 3
On The Move Christmas Party 4 | On The Move
New Trucks On The Road 6 | On The Move
On The Move | 7
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:
KIMBERLY CHUMBLEY
Account Executive
When did you start working break (ha, ha) as a stay at home mom; 11 attends Curington ES where he is
at On The Move? Most recently a Special Education involved as a safety patrol, Student
October 1, 2020 Teacher in Northside ISD Council representative and every
other activity he can participate in.
Where are you from? Favorite thing about On The Hobbies: Hiking, kayaking, camping
Move? with the family and Shopping (of
TEXAS! Born in Austin, Grew up in
I love the camaraderie and family course)
San Antonio and currently reside in
Boerne atmosphere of the company/ office.
Tell us about your family: Kimberly Favorite animal
has been married to Lynn for 20 I love dogs. During quarantine we
Alma mater?
years. Lynn is a Project Manager fostered a German Short-Haired
I have my BS in Biology/ Chemistry;
for USAA. They have 4 children; Pointer named Maverick!
MBA- Health Organization
Management both from Texas Tech Lawson – 17 attends Boerne HS
University where he is an offensive tackle for Favorite music
the Greyhounds and involved in FFA. I love LIVE music- all kinds.
Kaitlyn- 15 attends Boerne HS where
What did you do before On
she is active with her friends and FFA.
The Move?
Deacon- 12 attends BMSN and plays
I was a Sr. Vaccine Specialist at Sanofi
the Saxophone in the band. Hudson-
Pasteur for 10 years; Then took a
8 | On The Move
On The Move | 9
Moving Truck Ramp
Maintenance
BY C J STratte , marketing DIREC TOR
Most moving truck loading ramps have
several things in common. For starters,
aluminum construction is almost
universal. Aluminum provides adequate
strength and durability while keeping
weight as light as possible. Second,
loading ramps are constructed with a
non-slip surface. Renters can expect to
work in every weather condition and a
ramp must lend to safety when its wet
outside. Another common trait of loading
ramps is that they conveniently store
between the frame of the commercial
truck and are pulled out from the rear
bumper area. This otherwise unused ramp
storage space leaves the cargo area free.
Additionally, most moving truck ramps
have a weight capacity rating of 1,000 lbs.
Next Level Ramps
On The Move has taken moving truck
ramps to the next level. Listening to our
customers’ needs, we have adapted and
redesigned storage of the ramp. On our
Aerocell model, we extended the back
door to cover the ramp. This solved a
few issues that were concerning our
customers. During the 2008 financial
crisis, many ramps were being stolen.
Aluminum was a hot commodity at scrap
metal yards and moving truck ramps were
easily stolen. The extension of the door
covers the ramp and allows it to be locked
when the door is secured. Ad space
was also increased with the extension of
the door. Safety is also a huge concern
for On The Move. Securing the ramp
is mandatory in order to shut the door.
Slippage of the ramp while driving is
prevented with this simple alteration that
is exclusive to On The Move trucks.
Maintenance of Ramps
Pull out ramp do have their own issues,
but its minimal. Broken pull handles
and worn out slide mechanisms are the
most common problems. Make sure to
inspect your ramps and make sure they
are clean.
10 | On The MoveVISIT OTMSPECIALS.COM
CALL 800-645-9949Critical Pre-Marketing
For Your New Store
BY M. A nne Ballard, P resident, M arketing , Training and Developmental S ervices, Universal S torage Group
spaces, with a map, etc.) and your pre-
leasing special (ex: free boxes or lock). Be
sure to run at least 1500 extra post cards
to use for “cold call” marketing.
Mailing Service – Contract with a local
direct mail service for mailing list and
processing, or better yet, use the USPS at
https://www.usps.com/business/every-
door-direct-mail.htm for Every Door Direct
Mail - EDDM. Plan at least 3 drops of
9,000 – 10,000 cards to your target area.
Drops should be at least 7-10 days apart,
but not more than 2 weeks apart.
Specialty Letters/Postcards and Emails
Real Estate offices, banks, doctors,
and contractors all have special needs.
Design specific marketing letters for each
category, using your local yellow pages
as a mailing source, or online searches
for all of a category type; meaning all
lawyers, dentists etc, within a certain
distance from your store. For example,
From your Feasibility Study (we are with other successful developers to get you might send an “Uncluttered Houses
assuming you have done your homework), ideas for your customized marketing plan. Sell Faster” to real estate companies and
you will begin to shape your exact ideas The following is a suggested timeline you agents. Message should briefly address
for creating awareness to your targeted may consider. the problem and then give the reasons
new customers. Are they residential why agents should refer their clients to
between the ages of 35-46, 56-65 or Sixty days before opening: you; free move truck, large units, climate
apartment dwellers, commercial, college Confirm your website, logo, colors, control, camera surveillance, etc. Be
students, etc. All of these factors play an signage, market position – i.e., upscale, sure to include a referral program in your
important part in designing your pre- contractors, offices, drive up climate units, program. Or send a letter with an emery
leasing and on-going marketing programs, wine or unique offerings that will attract board attached saying “Your files are no
and for filling up any new location. renters to you. Make sure the image Problem with Us”. This small marketing
is consistent in all print and collateral action makes you memorable.
Once you have established your target materials.
service area, which can be within 3-5 Chamber of Commerce
miles and or 10 to 20-minute drive times, Direct Mail Program: Establish your place in the business
with luck it includes a wide cross section Material: A 4x6 jumbo postcard, community, join the Chamber now. It’s
of customer types needed for self storage 2-sided, full color postcard works well never too early to begin networking and
success. Then you may set the wheels in (approximate cost $65/M for 30,000 marketing your product. The Chamber
motion to create your opening timeline cards) you can design the card yourself, will play an important part in your Grand
of marketing action items necessary to there are some easy graphic programs Opening and future marketing events,
achieve success. The website is ready and now available, or hire a graphic designer such as the Ribbon Cutting or Business
you’ll be hoping for lots of phone calls and which we recommend. You only get to be After Hours onsite events for small
walk in traffic. How do we make sure the brand new one time, don’t be penny wise businesses such as these.
store will attract the balance of prospects and pound foolish; a professional design
needed to reach our proforma of new goes a long way. The postcard should Priority Waiting List
leases each month? By now, you have include: opening date, phone number, As soon as possible, secure your facility’s
joined the SSA and your state association location, pertinent benefits (free move phone number and forward it to your
and started reading articles and visiting truck, climate control, large commercial office or management company. Post
12 | On The Movethat number on a Coming Soon Sign at recommend you purchase member labels party store. Bag should include: small
the property that says “Now PreLeasing”. from the Chamber and mail your own set promo items (pens, magnet, key chains,)
Whenever possible the phone should of invitations. business card, referral program card,
be answered by a “live” operator. The special thank you flyer with event special
person answering the phone should be Your grand opening should be a gala coupon, candy, etc. Customize the bag to
able to give all the benefits your facility event with a theme. Choose a theme your specific products each guest should
will offer and be enthusiastic about the that has a connection to the name of receive a bag before they leave upon
opening. Obtain as much information as your property, time of year or upcoming exiting.
possible from your potential customer, holiday. For example, a cruise theme,
name, phone number, estimated size of “Cruise the Hudson” (name of facility), a Proper staffing is a must during events.
unit, email address. Stay in contact with luau theme “Hot Summer Nights” (beach There should be enough staff to give
your potential customer, updating them location), the choices are endless. Use personal tours and mingle with your
on the opening date and establishing a decorations throughout your facility that guests. Staff should be well versed on the
relationship. Contact is everything! If are a reflection of your theme. Twinkle property statistics and amenities and be
the customer is unable to wait until your lights, fresh flowers, balloons, beach balls, able to answer questions. Provide a Golf
facility is open, help them locate another hay bales, etc., be CREATIVE and have fun Cart Valet service. Choose designated
facility. Yes, help them locate another with your event. parking areas throughout your property
facility. They won’t forget your great and send the golf cart to pickup your
customer service and will become a future Mail, email or hand-deliver your guest, another way to provide a tour of
referral source, both the new storage invitations approximately 3-4 weeks your property. Be sure and provide return
customer and the store you sent them to, before the event, and don’t forget to valet service at end of event.
and now when you visit the competitor invite everyone you have made marketing
you’ll be welcomed with open arms. calls on and give them an invitation. Provide a place for guests to leave
Your invitation list should include all business cards and register for your door
Competitor survey chamber members, area businesses, prizes. Everyone must register for your
Get out there and visit all your like kind personal business associates, friends, and door prizes and you should give away at
competitors and let them know you look family. Obtain 2-4 catering bids (always least 3-5 of them, display them in the
forward to sharing referral fees with them use Chamber members). Remember, office with numbers on them and as you
for products you may not have and vice it is not necessary to provide a meal, give each person their treasure map to
versa. light hors d’oeuvres are sufficient. Most all the goodies remind them at what time
events include beer and wine; however, you will be picking the winners so they
30 days before opening this is your personal choice. How do need to be back in the office at that time
Follow up visits - Remember those you serve 200 guests in a storage facility, for the drawings. This will give you the
specialty letters, or postcards you mailed and give them a tour at the same time? email and phone number for each person
or emailed? Now’s the time to make Use our special tip for food placement. to add to your marketing database.
follow-up visits to introduce yourself and Choose several units of different sizes
update them on an opening date. Be throughout your facility, not too far apart No later than 10 days after your event,
sure and take some small token on your and in flow of foot traffic, to serve your send a follow up email thanking your
visit; pens with facility name and number, food. Four units work very well, two guest, outlining your services, and
pre-leasing postcard, referral cards, etc. with hors d’oeuvres, 1 with dessert and confirming that your event special is still
Begin making other marketing calls at this non-alcoholic punch and 1 for beer, wine valid until (date). Continuous contact is
time to apartment leasing agents, local and soft drinks. Each unit should be very important.
businesses, etc. Don’t forget the mall decorated. We recently had a caterer that
shops during the holiday season. loved the idea so much, she decorated The ideas and opportunities for pre
the units herself using our Fall Halloween leasing and opening events are endless.
Plan your Grand Opening theme and they were fabulous. Provide Remember, do your homework; define
Coordinate your Grand Opening and your guests with a “treasure map” of the your target area, develop a budget, design
Ribbon Cutting with the Chamber property listing unit #, size, and treat they a plan, be consistent in your marketing
event coordinator, choosing a date will find inside. For example: Climate efforts, be creative and have fun.
approximately 45-60 days after opening. Control Unit 515, 10 x 10 – Cold Shrimp
An evening event is recommended; Scampi, Stuffed Mushroom Caps, and You can, with these types of actions,
5:30 -7 pm or 6 – 8 pm. Your Chamber Honey Sesame Chicken Bites. create an extensive Priority Waiting List.
representative will make arrangements When the doors open wouldn’t it be nice
with local dignitaries to participate in the Be sure and prepare a thank you gift to have 100 names on your list waiting
ribbon cutting and send invitations to all bag for each guest. You can purchase for your call. This puts money in the bank
Chamber members. The rest is up to you. small white bags with your name and from day one and helps lessen the sting of
Most Chamber’s have event guidelines, logo on them for a minimal price from lots of expenses and no income as is usual
be sure to get a copy from your any promotional product supplier or you for a new location.
representative. If available, we strongly may opt to use clear bags from the local
On The Move | 13What a year in real estate for the
self-storage industry
Nicholas J. Malagisi, SIOR Managing Director
N ational Director Self Storage, SVN Commercial Real Estate Advisors
I’ve accumulated a number of Press engaging 3rd party professional self mortgage REIT, Jernigan Capital, and
Releases on real estate matters this past storage management companies to run they’re taking the company private.
12 months and it’s amazing to see the the day-to-day operations of their self
positive activity that is happening within storage business. And fourth, the number Finally, I have just received a report
our industry. of new companies that are forming equity from CoStar and they are reporting that
funds to acquire self storage continues to through November 30th, 2020 they have
Four notable trends are continuing grow with each passing month. recorded $3.2 Billion in self storage sales.
from the previous 5-6 years or since the This equates to 1,477 sales transactions
end of the last recession in 2012/2013. Besides these four trends, there were at an average sale price of $3.5 Million or
Those trends are that institutional capital several investment opportunities that $89 per net rentable square foot.
continues to note the steady returns on were created in 2020. Simply Self Storage
investment that the public REITs have portfolio of properties and company is Yes, this has been a most productive year
enjoyed these past several years and being acquired by the Blackstone Group for the self storage real estate sector with
capital continues to enter our sector in for $1.2 Billion. Storage-Mart, the largest continued low interest rates combined
the form of debt and equity. Secondly, independent self storage company is with low Cap Rates to entice owners to
the consolidation of smaller owner/ partnering with Cascade Investment, either sell or refinance their properties.
operators being sold to large operators a Bill Gates owned company, in a $2.7
who improve their economies of scale. Billion transaction to continue growing Happy Holidays!
The third continuing trend is the growing the company and create a private REIT.
number of property owners who are Nextpoint Storage has purchased the
14 | On The Moveare qr codes making a comeback?
BY C J STratte , marketing DIREC TOR
Quick Response codes (QR codes) are social distancing, you can use a QR code Where do you get a QR code?
being used more and more in 2020. They to find a menu at the restaurants you There are many sites to generate a QR
are scannable 2D codes that prompt a frequent. You simply open your camera code. I’d be happy to create one for you.
visit to your website, social media profiles app and scan the QR code launching the Just email me at CJ@onthemovetrucks.
or any hyperlink that you may use for restaurant’s menu. com and I can have to you within 24
your business. Around 2011, they first hours. All I need is the link that you
debuted with not much traction. They How can you use QR codes in your would like the QR code to point to!
were such a cool concept but we did not marketing?
have the technology to execute them. You can fulfil a variety of objectives with Scan this QR code to leave us a review on
Our smartphone internet speed and a QR code including linking to a website our Google page!
cameras did not work as they do today. or landing page, direct users to leave
It was tedious to download a third party you a review, access a special offer, view
app to scan the QR code. It was easier to your Google maps location or direct
just type the web address manually. customers to your social media profiles.
One of the most obvious places to put
How do you use QR codes in 2020? a QR code is on your moving truck. You
Now QR codes can be seen in many can print a sticker and easily add to
places including on movie, concert or your graphics. You can also put on your
even airline tickets. SnapCodes from the business cards, postcards, and print
social app SnapChat make it easier to advertising. It can be a tool to bridge
find a friend or share your profile. With your online and offline marketing.
16 | On The MoveWhen disaster strikes…
Preparing for it and dealing
with the aftermath
By Derek Gariss, Sr . Broker
We live in a very unpredictable world. ability to cause devastation in a matter of severely damaged a high school and other
Disaster can come in a variety of ways; minutes. Every year since 2008, the annual buildings. Each year about 1,200 tornadoes
but at the end of the day, I’m not here to cost of hail and storm damages has reached with wind speeds as high as 300 mph
scare or alarm you. I would like to help $19 billion or higher. Nationwide, hail is the touch down in the United States. Though
you prepare if and when a disaster strikes. most common natural disaster. not generally as destructive as hurricanes,
In 2019, the insurance industry in the U.S. tornadoes are more frequent and can also
spent nearly $24 billion in repair damage Thousands of homes, businesses and cause severe damage.
from major storms. Natural catastrophes vehicles were destroyed by the twister that
in 2019 caused about 9,000 deaths. sent 205-mph winds through the town of There are 200+ fires every day at work,
Greensburg, Kansas, in 2007. The Oklahoma according to U.S. government data. But
Hail may be only a momentary side effect town of Sweetwater, about 225 miles south having a fire extinguisher isn’t enough
of a larger storm, but hailstones have the of Greensburg, was hit hard by a twister that to protect what business owner’s work
18 | On The Moveso hard for. Fire damage can be costly Protective Shields Your disaster plan should include steps to
to repair so many businesses protect Install protective shields or screens over notify tenants on the state of the facility
themselves against potential losses skylights, HVAC units, and other roof- and let them know when they can safely
by buying insurance. Fortunately, fire mounted equipment. access the property via website and social
insurance is widely available. media announcements, emails and/or
Public Areas texts, and printed instructions. Provide
So how do you protect ourselves and the Make sure that all appropriate signage is timely updates whenever possible.
business you worked so hard for? There in place. ADA signage is a must.
are many steps that we can take to reduce Lastly, providing a protection plan like
the overall impact on our business. We Review your insurance policy SecureLease is an easy way to insure that
will investigate a few now. Make sure that you have the proper your tenants goods and your buildings are
coverage and limits for your business. protected.
Prevention and Risk Mitigation can help Coverages like Business Interruption,
small businesses minimize and ideally Customer Legal Liability, Sale and All of the items above should be part
prevent the impact of a crisis. The Disposal, and a specific wind and hail of your business-continuity plan and
effective way to protect your business, policy for your area. updated regularly. You can review and
employees and customers are to create your own plan at ready.gov.
anticipate the possibility of a crisis and Create an emergency plan
develop a risk management plan. This Creating an emergency plan can not only Response to a Disaster
ensures that everyone on your team save you time and money, it could be the When the facility is safe to approach, it’s
understands what to do before, during difference between opening or closing the your duty to protect your buildings from
and after disasters occur.Making sure that doors forever. further damage. Secure the property,
you are doing regular maintenance can contact local authorities and call your
help you prevent loss in the event of a A good disaster plan starts with a list insurance agent to report the claim in
severe storm of emergency contacts including the a timely manner. Take photographs and
local fire and police departments as well document all loss.
Facility Maintenance as your insurance agent, electrician,
Prepare your property for severe wind plumber, and HVAC contractor. In Contact your tenants and provide
and hail with maintenance tasks that addition, keep an updated list of instructions on how and when they can
can help reduce potential damage. Trim employees, tenants and vendors readily access the property in a safe manner.
trees to prevent damage from falling available. This information should be According to the Federal Emergency
limbs and falling trees. Make sure backed up and retained off site. A site Management Agency, 40 percent
equipment is secured in a protective map or diagram, building plans, and bank- of businesses don’t reopen after a
structure. Tie down construction account records should also be kept at an major disaster. The Small Business
materials and other items that could off-site location. Administration indicates that an
become airborne and cause damage additional 25 percent fail within two
during a severe storm. Inspect doors For employee safety, maintain years following the loss. When we
and door latches to make sure that they an emergency kit that includes take the statistic from the magazine
are in proper working order. Make sure blankets, a fire extinguisher, first-aid “Claims Journal” that 75 percent of small
to place vermin deterrent. essentials, battery-operated lights, a businesses don’t have a disaster plan,
radio, water, a whistle and basic tools. You these numbers provide a valuable lesson.
Roof Inspections and Maintenance also need to plan for disruption to your Planning ahead and taking the steps to
Schedule regular inspections with utility services. Determine which ones are develop a disaster-preparedness plan is
a qualified roofer to evaluate the necessary for continuing your business the key for business continuation.
condition of the roof and perform the (for example, phone) and contact your
necessary maintenance on any areas local provider to see what back-up options
identified as defective. are available.
On The Move | 19ANGEL TREE
BY Jennifer Danuff, Marketing Manager, Capco General Contracting
on a tree for donors to select from.
You may have seen these trees around
your local malls and Walmarts in past
years. This year, however, because of the
pandemic, many of the adoptions were
done virtually. At Capco, we were able to
send the tags digitally to our donors and
many gifts were able to be purchased
online. Our team was so thankful to
be able to continue with our toy drive,
despite the unique circumstances.
We were so happy to see half of our
angels get adopted with in the first week
this year! Many of our employees and
partners get excited to shop for the
angels and have made it a part of their
company’s traditions as well. As time
goes on, we hope to continue to increase
our goal, bringing the magic of Christmas
to as many children as possible.
In 2017, we held our first Angel Tree Toy
Drive and collected gifts for 60 angels. While the angel tree is one of Capco’s
This past holiday season, our team biggest fundraisers of the year, our
donated gifts to 100 children with the team makes it a priority to support
help of our employees, clients, suppliers local and national programs through
and subcontractors. With 2020 so heavily both employee volunteerism and
impacted by COVID-19, it was more charitable giving throughout the year.
important than ever this holiday season The Food Bank, Shriners Hospitals,
to help the increasing number of those Arc of San Antonio, Life Academy,
in need. The Salvation Army predicted The San Antonio Clubhouse and the
they would need resources to serve up Texas Foundation of Hope are just a
to 155% more people with Christmas few of the numerous organizations we
assistance in 2020. contribute to year after year.
Recipients of the Angel Tree gifts come Capco General Contracting is a full-
from families who have applied for service general contractor in San
While many holiday traditions may have assistance through The Salvation Army. Antonio, Texas. We have the expertise
looked a little different this year, the The children range in age from newborn to provide a full range of value-added
Capco team was able to continue one to 12 years and come from a variety of services to ensure the construction of
of our favorite traditions: our company backgrounds. Each angel has a paper tag your project is seamless, on budget
wide Angel Tree Toy Drive benefiting associated to them in the shape of an and on time. Our experienced team of
the Salvation Army of San Antonio. The angel with their first name, age, gender, project managers and superintendents
Angel Tree program launched in 1979 clothing size and wish list items. The are committed to executing your vision
with goal of providing clothing and toys wants and needs of the children range from beginning to end.
for children at Christmastime. Since then, from educational toys and art supplies to
the Angel Tree Toy Drive has become bicycles, scooters and roller skates.
well-known across the country. The angel tags are traditionally displayed
20 | On The Movecovid-19
lasting impacts on the
self-storage industry
By Renee Tulve, Marketing Manager, Platinum Storage Group; Storage Direct
The Covid-19 pandemic transformed other large companies also dramatically decide how to best move forward in a
consumer behavior and forced operators discounted rates in many markets, forcing continuing pandemic under uncertain and
to adapt at a pace unseen before the small and medium sized operators to quickly changing market conditions.
outbreak. Before COVID-19 and the make concessions and change their
resulting pandemic, self-storage operators operations to better accommodate While there were many negative effects
had enjoyed a steady upward trajectory at tenants to remain competitive. Owners on the storage industry during the
their sites that supported a sort of long- were also faced with local legal mandates pandemic, positive changes were made as
term status quo in the industry. However, and ethical concerns regarding liens and owners were forced to find new creative
during the pandemic, a drop in demand late fees and the sale of customers goods, ways to do business with their customers
resulted in a decline in rental rates that resulting in higher delinquencies than while avoiding direct contact. Platinum
defied trends set in previous years; previous years. This added pressure made was uniquely positioned to adapt to these
forcing operators to respond. REITS and many owners reassess their abilities to changes as our longtime emphasis on
22 | On The Movetechnology allowed our operations team competitive landscape. Not only do repairs. This leaves the owner with time
to quickly shift to contactless rentals and they have the expertise and experience to pursue other interests while knowing
payments. Our company’s partnership necessary to be competitive with their property is being well-managed.
with the StoreLocal Storage Co-op allowed the large, well-financed regional and
us to instantly deploy contactless online national companies, they can provide About Platinum:
rentals with ID verification, and online certain economies of scale that might Platinum Storage Group is a top national
document management distribution not be possible otherwise. By hiring a self-storage owner-operator, property
systems to conduct business with professional management company, an manager, developer and asset manager
customers through their phones and owner gets the best of all worlds. They with over 30 years experience operating
computers via e-signature documents. still own the property and get a monthly self-storage facilities nationwide and
Davinci combination locks were also check without having to handle day-to- over 20 facilities in our acquisitions and
utilized to allow customers to access their day operations. They have an expert with development pipeline. We are excited
units before or after office hours, which the tools and experience to help increase for the future and looking forward to our
meant a customer could rent online, enter occupancy, decrease operating expenses, continued growth and success.
the site and access their unit without any and oversee capital improvements and
face to face interaction with site staff.
Customers could also completely manage
their documents and payments online
rather than having to visit the office.
These upgrades allow us to better serve
our customers now and, in the future, as
we continue to build systems to automate
and simplify the storage experience.
As with most economic downturns,
storage once again proved to be one of
the most resilient asset classes during
the pandemic. In fact, most of Platinum’s
properties performed well through the
pandemic and even exceeded 2019
income. Looking into the future for 2021
we expect storage rates to make a full
recovery and potentially get back on
pace with the pre 2020 annual growth
rates. While delinquency and bad debt
will need to be addressed in Q4 and Q1
2020, historically low vacancy rates leave
room for any small dip in occupancy
from sorting out these units. Our team
also believes that there will be room for
raising street and in-place rental rates
as we enter the new year. We anticipate
that self-storage will continue to do well
in 2021 as operators are well equipped
to deal with the ongoing challenges of
the pandemic.
Are you looking for a third-party
management company that will ensure
your property has the tools it needs
to succeed? Third-party management
companies provide self-storage owners
with a tremendous resource that they
can rely on to navigate the changing
On The Move | 23RECIPE
ORIGINAL WALDORF SALAD
Delicious sweet and savory Southern PREP TIME: 15 minutes
smothered green beans are a perfect side COOK TIME: 40 minutes
dish during the Holidays! TOTAL TIME: 55 minutes
Ingredients Instructions
3 (14.5oz. cans) cut green beans drained Spritz 9 x 13 pan with your favorite
12 Slices Cooked Bacon (crisp and cooking spray such as Pam.
chopped)
2/3 Cup Brown Sugar Put drained green beans into the pan.
1/4 Cup Melted Butter
6 Teaspoons Tamari Soy Sauce Mix the brown sugar, melted butter,
2 teaspoons garlic powder tamari soy sauce, garlic powder, and
2 teaspoons onion powder onion powder. Pour over green beans.
Cooking Spray for Pan
Add Cooked Bacon
Bake 40 Minutes in 350º F oven.
24 | On The MoveOn The Move | 25
TRUCK OF THE QUARTER
THE COSSETTE TEAM
26 | On The MoveHow did you become involved in
the real estate industry?
While buying and selling homes,
it spiked my interest in the real
estate industry. I obtained my 1st
Brokers license in 1980 in Colora-
do. Currently, I have three offices
in Austin.
How long have you been an On
The Move customer?
My truck is fairly new…only about
6 months.
How do you use your truck?
I loan it out to my clients and
friends.
What is your favorite thing about
your truck?
It is easy and fun to drive while
providing great advertising.
Any advice for being successful
with a rental truck program?
Make sure to know what you want
to use it for. Have fun!
On The Move | 27Congrats on your Wedding, Noemi!
Looking back at the summer of 1983, Luis told those doctors was, “What is yellow roses. There was not a dry eye in
then Noemi DeLaGarza 16 years old and impossible with man is not impossible the crowd!
Luis Farias 18 years old were each other’s with God.”
first boyfriend and girlfriend. That Fall Needless to say, they both will face many
they departed ways, Noemi returning to Enter July 23rd, 2020 Noemi and Luis met challenges as Luis rehabilitates and begins
High School and Luis pursuing his college in person and began their reconnection his return to Law Enforcement. But they
basketball career in Salinas, CA. with daily meetings and phone call are each other’s constant support system
conversations lasting up to five hours. and are convinced that God was their true
Fast forward 37 years, nearly 4 decades, They felt like they had picked up where matchmaker which makes them convicted
Noemi reached out to Luis on July 22nd they left off in 1983. Nothing about their in embracing their future together.
2020 through Facebook messenger after reunion felt awkward at all. Their bond Jeramiah 33:3
running across some old photos of each was re-sealed. Staring at love in each
other. other’s faces they decided to marry on
October 23rd, 2020.
N: “Hey Luis, this is Noemi. How are you?”
L: “Going through a rough time in life They had a small ceremony at El Mirasol
actually. I really can’t believe I am actually Restaurant in San Antonio, TX. The entire
hearing from you. What an extreme wedding party convened out to the
surprise!!!” courtyard where Luis surprised Noemi
with a 3 song serenade (Perfect-Ed
What Noemi did not know, was Luis was Sherran, Back At One-Brian McKnight and
involved in a catastrophic motor vehicle All of Me-John Legend). He auditioned
accident on February 2, 2017 in his police seven singers before making his final
patrol unit. He suffered physical and selection with singer/songwriter Ponciano
neurological injuries to both legs below Seoane who happened to appear on the
the knees after being ejected from his Voice Season 11-Team Adam. After each
unit. Doctors advised him that his career song, Luis had his nieces and nephew
in Law Enforcement was over. What present Noemi with a dozen red, pink and
28 | On The MoveHandling Vagrancy in
Self-Storage
By Carol Mixon , OwneR, SkilCheck Services, Inc.
space out to keep them safe and other
customers’ goods safe as well.
Unfortunately, there are multiple videos
on YouTube that are helping to teach
people how to live in self-storage units
and even how to cook out of the space.
Below you will find a link to a very
disturbing video where a man teaches
others how to start a fire with toilet paper
to cook out of his storage space.
We have experienced life in a whole new Danger to Self-Storage Operations What Can You Do - Preventative
way during the COVID-19 pandemic. As you know, self-storage was never Measures
Fortunately, those of us in the self- intended for people to live in or out It is important to walk or ride around
storage business have seen an increase of! For the sake of people trying to live the entire storage property several times
in customer use of self-storage and RV out of the space and for our other self- per day, especially if you know that you
storage. The RV industry has increased storage customers, we need to monitor have customers on the site that are
sales by 170% in the 2020 pandemic. the property daily and in some locations trying to live or simply hang out in the
Fortunate people have decided to take to hourly to make sure we don’t have people storage space. Those tenants who are
the road and see America. trying to live out of the space. problematic should get written notice that
There have been multiple deaths of they are going to have limited access to
Unfortunately, the homeless and drug customers trying to live out of their the space.
addicts have become more widespread storage space.
during the pandemic too. The chart For example:
below shows an estimate of homeless Lafayette Police investigate the scene of an Restricted access through the gate or into
people by state. early morning fire at Simply Self Storage, the building during office hours only.
4900 Tazer Drive, Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020 in
This chart shows that vagrants are Lafayette, Indiana Overlock their space every day when the
attracted to warmer and more liberal On November 12th, at the Simply Self office closes.
leaning states. Storage location in Lafayette, Indiana a
fire occurred. Firefighters stated a space Increase their rent due to the fact that
A report in Austin, Texas reads that while heater in one storage unit that someone you are having to provide more security
a lot of attention has gone to homeless was living in caught other items in the St. and labor to manage them.
camps under the overpasses, advocates Elmo’s Self Storage unit on fire. The person
say there are more hidden people trying to live in the space was treated for These measures may sound unfair, but
struggling with homelessness. “We smoke inhalation. Twenty-eight spaces were they are for the safety of not only the
have people in sort of more rural areas, destroyed due to this fire. tenant but all the other tenants and goods
obviously people downtown and in some stored at the property.
of the more urban spots, but there isn’t The fire raises concerns about affordable
one specific type of place that people end housing in Austin. Experts say if people If you want to hear more about this
up if they’re unsheltered,” said Executive cannot find an affordable place to live, and other storage topics, please go the
Director Matt Mollica with the Ending they will resort to other options like living SkilCheck YouTube channel at YouTube.
Community Homelessness Coalition in a storage unit for shelter. However, as com/SkilCheckServices.
(ECHO). storage operators we need to be diligent
to keep customers trying to live in the Thanks, and happy renting!
On The Move | 29ACTION!
Account Tracking & Insurance Online
Innovative Technology For All Your Vehicle Renting Needs:
Tracking, Claims, Accounting And Much More
Version
New & Improved
2.0
• Streamlined account creation for quick sign up
• Licensee login with admin capabilities for each location
• Ability to easily switch modes between licensee and location levels
• Clickable calendar based reservations
• Real time calendar updates for reservations
• Easy-to-use pick-up and return processes SIGN UP TODAY!
• New online vehicle damage history
at www.otmrentals.com
• Printable PDF rental agreements
800.645.9949
www.onthemovetrucks.com | 28825 IH-10 West | Boerne, TX 78006RESOURCE GUIDE
For Truck Claims (Fleet Response)............ 800-338-0619
SecureLease Claims.................................. 212-269-8220
Windshield/Glass Repair.......................... 830-428-0785
On The Move Roadside Assistance........... 888-242-9044
Order Supplies.......................................... 800-645-9949
Request Cert/ID card................................ 830-428-0785
ACTION!2.0....................830-428-0778 or 830-428-0779
Submit Address Change
Email info@onthemovetrucks.com
Important Websites:
www.onthemovetrucks.com
www.onthemovevehicles.com
www.onthemoveinsurance.com
www.onthemovefoodtrucks.com
www.otmrentals.com
On The Move | 31PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Pontiac, IL Permit No. 592
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